First impressions: A beautiful, thatched house with great views over the hills to Durdle Door and easy access to stunning coastal walks.

What are the rooms like? The house has three double bedrooms, all on the ground floor. Two are en suite, while other has a large bathroom at the end of the hall. All rooms are simply furnished with stark, white walls and stripped wooden floors. Contemporary paintings, African artifacts and hand-crafted cushions add splashes of colour and style.

The bed test: A huge, rattan bed with crisp white sheets and a soft, cosy duvet. It was extremely comfortable and the silence was bliss.

The bathroom: Big enough to do cartwheels in, and complete with power shower and bathtub.

Dining room: There is neither restaurant nor bar, but cooked breakfast is served on the communal table in the upstairs dining room.

What is there to see within walking distance? You can trek the 200m over to Durdle Door, a fantastic pebble beach with amazing rock formations or visit the 'fossil forest' at the far side of Lulworth Cove. Alternatively, you can idle around the local shops and stock up on home-made wine, indulge yourself with a cream tea or check out the local pubs.

What is there to see within driving distance? The 17th-century Lulworth Castle is only a three-mile drive away. A little further, towards Wareham, is The Blue Pool, which is a tranquil lake that changes colour according to the light, and is surrounded by woodland walks.